SUGAR industry stakeholders escorted the body of the late permanent secretary for Sugar, Lieutenant Colonel Manasa Vaniqi, from the Lautoka Hospital to his family home at Waqadra in Nadi yesterday afternoon.

Fiji Sugar Corporation executive chairman Abdul Khan, director Sugar Viliame Gucake and Sugar Cane Growers Council CEO Sundresh Chetty were among other industry leaders who took their respected colleague home.

“It was a very emotional experience for all of us,” said Mr Chetty.

“Mr Vaniqi was not only a close colleague, he was also a friend to everyone in the industry.

“Despite his position in the industry, he was a very humble and approachable man and he will be missed.”

Mr Gucake said industry stakeholders and Prime Minister and Minister for Sugar Rear Admiral (Ret) Voreqe Bainimarama would present their i reguregu to the family today.

Lt-Col Vaniqi will be laid to rest by members of the RFMF at Enamanu Cemetery after a service at the Nasereci Methodist Church this morning.